The best white wines of Sardinia

Viticulture dates back to antiquity in Sardinia, but it is only recently that the region’s qualities have been acknowledged. Its red wines are highly appreciated, but it also offers some particularly fine whites. Among Sardinia’s most important whites, Vermentino stands out, and is found pretty much all over the region, starting with Gallura DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) designation. Vermentino is not found only in Sardinia, but also in Liguria and Tuscany, with different characteristics. While Vermentino Sardo does in fact boast more mineral notes and more complex tertiary aromas, as well as an ABV generally higher than Tuscan Vermentino (for example in Colli di Luni DOC or Riviera Ligure di Ponente), the latter wins in terms of freshness and fruitier, more citrus and varietal notes, with an almond finish. Vermentino Riviera Ligure di Ponente is different again, with a highly aromatic nose, often tending towards hints of aromatic herbs such as sage.

Major designations

Among the other important Sardinian designations we should mention Vermentino di Sardegna DOC, produced in the provinces of Oristano, Nuoro, Sassari and Cagliari, also in semi-sparkling and spumante types, as well as dry, medium-dry and sweet versions. One of Sardinia’s most typical white wines is Vernaccia di Oristano, an explosion of aromas and flavour! With very ancient origins, Vernaccia is produced from the homonymous variety using oxidative techniques very similar to those of Spanish fortified wines based on the Solera method. Generally in the month of March, after fermentation of the must, Vernaccia di Oristano is transferred into chestnut or oak barrels which are filled up to about 10-20% of their maximum capacity, a production technique which gives the wine its typical oxidative trait. Other Sardinian white wine designations include Malvasia di Bosa, Moscato di Cagliari, Moscato di Sardegna, Nuragus di Cagliari and Sardinia Semidano.

Pairings with Sardinian white wines

Sardinian cuisine is tasty and vibrant, just like its white wines! Vermentino di Gallura DOCG is an explosion of aromas, ranging from mineral and citrus notes to dried fruit, over a generous, warm palate with an extremely long finish. Such a muscular white wine requires careful pairing, with flavourful dishes such as a mixed grill of fish. If you choose the most suitable version, Vermentino di Sardegna DOC can happily keep you company for the whole meal. Fans of sparkling wines must try a spumante from Vermentino, excellent with seafood and shellfish, while if you are looking for a wine to accompany the whole meal, a dry Vermentino can save the day, paired with a rich selection of Italian mixed appetisers, fish-based pasta and rice dishes, not to mention tasty vegetable main courses, such as a courgette and potato tart.

More intense flavours and aromas

If you like thrilling, vibrant flavours, the next wine will be a real treat for your tastebuds. Vernaccia di Oristano, with a bright golden hue tending towards amber, and a characteristic nose of caramel, walnuts, dates and chestnut honey, over an incredibly generous palate with an extremely leisurely finish, is a concentrate of sensations! Pasta with grey mullet bottarga, freshly grated or in slivers (be generous!) is perhaps one of the best regional pairings, but Vernaccia also goes well with pecorino sardo or pardulas, traditional ricotta sweets. Sardegna Semidano, from the variety of the same name, offering a delicate nose and medium structure, pairs well with zuppa di fagioli or fish soup, or Fiore Sardo, one of the region’s typical cheeses. Lastly, Nuragus Sardo, also produced from its homonymous variety, is characterised by attractive freshness, making it a good pairing for shellfish and seafood pasta dishes.